Sharma said the police, during investigation, had come to know that two dreaded criminals—Tulia Jena and Sanjib Patnaik—were the masterminds of the crime.

“The duo, presently lodged in the jail, had given Rs 30 lakh to the Nihar, Suman, Madhab and Chagala to eliminate Binod and his brother Rahas. As planned the four anti-socials came to the liquor shop in the night on December 6 and opened fire at Binod and his brother. While Binod died on the spot, Rahas, who was seriously injured, was rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack where he is under treatment,” Sharma said.

He said the police have seized three country-made revolvers, nine live bullets, two live country-made bombs and two bikes from the three accused.